Trump Warns Of Renewed Strikes On Iran As Peace Deal Odds Remain Fifty-Fifty

Speaking on May 23, 2026, Trump told CBS News and Axios that he may decide by Sunday whether to resume strikes on Iran. His remarks came amid ongoing negotiations involving U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, Vice President JD Vance, and regional mediators.

Trump’s Position

• Trump described the odds of a deal as “solid 50/50.”
• He warned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to strikes that would “blow them to kingdom come.”
• He emphasized that any deal must prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and ensure enriched uranium is “satisfactorily handled.” 

Iran’s Demands

• End to the war and closure of U.S. bases in the Gulf.
• Guarantees against further attacks and lifting of sanctions.
• No restrictions on its missile program.
• Reparations for war damages and a new order for the Strait of Hormuz, similar to toll collections in the Suez Canal. 
  

Mediation Efforts

Negotiators from Pakistan and Qatar traveled to Tehran last week, reporting “encouraging progress.”

Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have played key roles in mediation.

Gulf leaders from Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia are also engaged in talks. 

Strategic Context

The talks follow weeks of tension, including U.S. naval blockades and Iranian threats to choke the Strait of Hormuz.

A draft agreement reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire extension, gradual opening of Hormuz, easing of sanctions, and discussions on Iran’s uranium stockpile. 

Diplomatic Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Trump says Iran deal chances are “solid 50/50”

•⁠  ⁠Warns of strikes if talks fail

•⁠  ⁠Iran demands sanctions relief, closure of U.S. bases, and missile freedom

•⁠  ⁠Mediators from Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia involved

•⁠  ⁠Draft deal includes ceasefire extension and nuclear program discussions

•⁠  ⁠Decision expected by Sunday on whether U.S. resumes strikes

Sources: Times Now, Al-Monitor, The Telegraph